Introduction
When it comes to credit cards, the choices can be overwhelming. Each card offers a unique set of benefits, and finding the perfect match for your spending habits and travel preferences requires careful consideration. One card that deserves a closer look is the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card.
The Southwest Priority Card: A Premium Choice
At first glance, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card may appear to be the costliest option among Southwest Airlines' consumer credit cards due to its higher annual fee. However, it's essential to look beyond the price tag and explore the card's benefits, which can make it a valuable choice for dedicated Southwest travelers.
The Allure of Anniversary Perks
One compelling aspect of the Southwest Priority Card is the annual anniversary bonus. Cardholders receive a generous 7,500-point bonus every year without the need to meet specific spending requirements. This bonus alone can significantly offset the card's annual fee, making it a compelling proposition.
$75 Southwest Travel Credit: A Rewarding Feature
Another noteworthy benefit is the $75 Southwest travel credit provided annually. This credit can be applied to various Southwest purchases, including airfare and pet carrier fees, enhancing the card's overall value.
Upgraded Boardings: Jumping Ahead
The Southwest Priority Card offers credits for up to four "upgraded boardings" annually, potentially saving travelers $30 to $50 each time. This feature allows cardholders to secure prime overhead bin space and a more comfortable boarding experience.
In-Flight Savings: Enjoying the Journey
Using the Southwest Priority Card to pay for in-flight amenities such as drinks, Wi-Fi, messaging, movies, or other qualifying services results in a 25% rebate. This perk ensures that travelers can save while enjoying their in-flight experience.
Earning Rewards: A Lucrative Proposition
Earning rewards with the Southwest Priority Card is straightforward and rewarding:
- 3 Points Per Dollar on Southwest Purchases: For every dollar spent on Southwest purchases, cardholders earn three points, covering flights and other expenses related to the airline.
- 2 Points Per Dollar on Rapid Rewards Hotel and Car Rental Partner Purchases: Booking hotels and car rentals through Southwest's Rapid Rewards program earns two points for every dollar spent.
- 2 Points Per Dollar on Local Transit and Commuting, Including Rideshare: Whether using public transportation or ridesharing services, this card rewards travelers with two points per dollar spent.
- 2 Points Per Dollar on Internet, Cable, Phone Services, and Select Streaming: Modern life revolves around these services, and the Southwest Priority Card recognizes that by offering two points per dollar spent in these categories.
- 1 Point Per Dollar on All Other Purchases: Even when not traveling or making specific purchases, cardholders accumulate one point for every dollar spent.
Elite Status Booster: Ascending the Ranks
The Southwest Priority Card offers an elite status booster, allowing travelers to earn 1,500 tier qualifying points for every $10,000 in purchases, with no limit on the number of points that can be earned. These tier qualifying points contribute towards achieving valuable Southwest loyalty benefits.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: A Global Companion
For those who frequently travel abroad, the Southwest Priority Card is an excellent choice since it doesn't impose foreign transaction fees. While Southwest primarily operates domestic routes, it also serves destinations in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, making this card versatile for international travel.
The Quest for Companion Pass and A-List Status
One of the standout features of the Southwest Priority Card is its ability to help travelers earn Southwest's coveted Companion Pass and A-List status:
- Companion Pass: This pass allows one companion to fly for free (excluding taxes or fees) when purchasing or redeeming points for a trip. To earn it, travelers need to accumulate 135,000 qualifying points in a calendar year. All points earned with the Southwest Priority Card, including sign-up and anniversary bonuses, count towards this pass.
- A-List Status: A-List status provides benefits such as priority check-in, free same-day standby changes, a 25% points bonus when purchasing eligible Southwest flights, and more. To qualify, travelers must earn 35,000 tier-qualifying points in a calendar year. Typically, these points are earned through actual Southwest flight activity, but the Southwest Priority Card awards 1,500 tier-qualifying points for every $10,000 spent, with no cap.
- A-List Preferred Status: Building upon A-List status, A-List Preferred offers even more perks, including free in-flight Wi-Fi on equipped planes and a 100% points bonus when purchasing eligible Southwest flights. Travelers can qualify for A-List Preferred by accumulating 70,000 tier-qualifying points in a calendar year. The tier-qualifying points earned with the Southwest Priority Card also count towards this status.
Considerations: The Other Side of the Coin
While the Southwest Priority Card offers numerous advantages, it's essential to consider its drawbacks:
- First-Year Annual Fee: Unlike some co-branded airline credit cards, the Southwest Priority Card does not waive the annual fee during the first year. Cardholders should be prepared to pay the annual fee from the start.
- Limited Luxury Benefits: Southwest Airlines is known for its no-frills approach. If travelers seek airport lounge access or credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck application fees, they may need to explore other card options.
- Spending Rewards Flexibility: The points earned with the Southwest Priority Card cannot be transferred to other airlines or travel partners. For those who frequently fly with multiple airlines besides Southwest, a general travel rewards card may provide more flexibility in redemption.
Exploring Alternatives
If the Southwest Priority Card doesn't align with your preferences, several alternative credit cards are worth exploring:
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
For Southwest loyalists seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card offers a viable alternative. While it provides fewer perks, it shares the same sign-up bonus and ongoing rewards structure as the Southwest Priority Card, making it a more cost-effective choice. However, please note that this card does charge foreign transaction fees.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
If you appreciate Southwest but desire more flexible rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card may be the right fit. This card allows travelers to transfer rewards points to multiple hotel and airline partners, including Southwest. Additionally, it offers substantial bonuses for travel and dining, among other categories, making it an appealing option for those seeking versatility in their rewards.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
For travelers whose loyalty isn't limited to Southwest, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card could be a better fit. It earns miles on all purchases, which can be redeemed as statement credits against various travel expenses. The card also offers application fee credits for Global Entry or TSA Precheck programs.
Comparison with other credit cards
| Feature | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Card | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Card | Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $149 | $69 | $95 |
| Sign-Up Bonus | 50,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months | 50,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months | 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months |
| Anniversary Bonus | 7,500 points annually | 3,000 points annually | N/A |
| Rewards on Southwest Purchases | 3 points per $1 spent | 2 points per $1 spent | 2 points per $1 spent |
| Rewards on Rapid Rewards Partners | 2 points per $1 spent | N/A | 2 points per $1 spent |
| Rewards on Local Transit, Internet, etc. | 2 points per $1 spent | N/A | 1 point per $1 spent (Internet, cable, phone, and select streaming) |
| Rewards on All Other Purchases | 1 point per $1 spent | 1 point per $1 spent | 1 point per $1 spent |
| Tier Qualifying Points | Yes (unlimited) | No | No |
| Foreign Transaction Fees | None | 3% | None |
| Travel Credits & Perks | $75 annual Southwest travel credit, upgraded boardings, 25% back on in-flight purchases | N/A | N/A |
| Airport Lounge Access | No | No | No |
| Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Fee Credit | No | No | Yes ($100 application fee credit) |
| Redemption Flexibility | Limited to Southwest and partner airlines | Limited to Southwest | Transferable to multiple airline and hotel partners |
| Best Suited For | Dedicated Southwest flyers who value perks and elite status | Southwest loyalists seeking affordable ity | Travelers seeking versatility in rewards and premium travel benefits |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Southwest Priority Card may come with a higher annual fee, but it offers substantial value for dedicated Southwest travelers. Its anniversary bonuses, travel credits, and elite status-boosting capabilities can lead to significant savings and an enhanced travel experience. However, it's essential to weigh the card's benefits against your travel habits and preferences to determine if it's the ideal choice for you. Always remember to consider alternative credit card options to find the one that aligns perfectly with your financial goals and lifestyle.
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Is it worth it to upgrade to Southwest Priority Card?
The decision to upgrade to the Southwest Priority Card is based on your travel habits and interests. If you often fly with Southwest and can take advantage of its advantages and bonuses, including as the annual travel credit, upgraded boarding, and anniversary bonus, the higher annual price may be worth it. Consider how much you value these features in relation to the card's price.
How much is a Southwest Priority Card?
The Southwest Priority Card has an annual fee of $149.
How do I get 100,000 Chase Sapphire Preferred?
To qualify for the 100,000-point bonus on the Chase Sapphire Preferred, you must normally meet the card's minimum spending threshold, which varies. Check out the latest deal and conditions on the Chase website or with your bank.
Does Southwest Chase visa have international fees?
No, there are no foreign transaction fees with the Southwest Chase Visa card, making it an excellent choice for overseas travel.
What is the highest limit on Chase Sapphire?
The credit limit on a Chase Sapphire card can differ depending on a person's creditworthiness and financial background. There is no set "highest limit" that applies to all cardholders.
What is the credit limit for 30k salary?
Credit restrictions are not simply governed by your earnings. When calculating your credit limit, credit card companies analyze a number of variables, including your credit history, credit score, previous debt, and other financial responsibilities. Your credit limit is not determined solely by your $30,000 earnings.
What is priority on Southwest?
"Priority" on Southwest Airlines usually refers to priority boarding. Priority boarding passengers board the plane before other passengers, allowing them to select preferred seats and access to overhead bin space.
Is Southwest card international?
While Southwest mostly runs domestic flights within the United States, it does offer several international destinations, particularly to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. The Southwest card can be used for international flights as well as spending abroad with no foreign transaction fees.
Does Southwest Priority Card pay for Global Entry?
Yes, the Southwest Priority Card offers a $100 credit every four years for the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee. When traveling internationally, this perk might help you expedite security and customs procedures.
Is Southwest credit card good for international travel?
The Southwest credit card may be appropriate for foreign travel, especially if you fly to places on Southwest's international route network. Furthermore, the absence of international transaction fees makes the card suitable for use abroad.
What international airlines does Southwest partner with?
Southwest Airlines is largely a low-cost carrier with few foreign airline affiliations. It does, however, have codeshare agreements with foreign carriers such as Volaris and others, which enable connections to specific overseas destinations.
Does Southwest fly international to Asia?
No, Southwest Airlines does not fly direct to Asia. It concentrates mostly on internal flights within the United States, with limited international service to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Does Southwest have a lounge?
Southwest carriers, unlike some other carriers, does not operate regular airport lounges. Instead, it provides up to four "upgraded boardings" each year to Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Cardholders, allowing travelers to select seats sooner and get closer to the front of the boarding line.
Can you use Southwest credit card for other airlines?
The Southwest credit card is intended for usage only with Southwest Airlines and its partners. It does not offer incentives or benefits for flying with other airlines. Consider a general travel rewards credit card for more adaptable incentives.
How to get priority boarding for free with Southwest?
You can receive priority boarding with Southwest by achieving A-List or A-List Preferred status, which comes with privileges like priority boarding. To obtain A-List status, you must typically fly a certain number of qualifying flights or collect a certain number of tier qualifying points in a calendar year. Another alternative is to purchase the enhanced boarding option (A1-A15) on the day of your flight, which permits you to board earlier.
How to use Southwest Priority Credit Card upgraded boarding?
The Southwest Priority Credit Card provides a benefit of up to four "upgraded boardings" per year (when available). To use this benefit, you should follow these steps:
1. Purchase an upgraded boarding position (A1-A15) at the departure gate or ticket counter.
2. Pay with your Southwest Priority Credit Card.
3. Keep your receipt, and Chase will reimburse you for the upgrade cost on your statement, typically within a few days.
Does Chase Southwest card pay for TSA PreCheck?
Yes, the Chase Southwest credit cards, including the Southwest Priority Card, offer a credit of up to $85 to cover the cost of TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fees. You can use this credit to apply for either program, which provides expedited security screening at airports.
Does Southwest Priority Card have early bird check-in benefits?
No, early bird check-in is not an advantage of the Southwest Priority Card. Southwest Airlines offers a separate option called early bird check-in, which allows you to automatically check-in and obtain a better boarding location for a price.
Does Southwest ever give free upgrades?
Southwest Airlines does not usually provide free upgrades to higher boarding slots, such as Business Select or improved boarding places (A1-A15). These seats are normally available for purchase at the gate or during the booking process.
Is early bird check-in the same as upgraded boarding?
No, early bird check-in and enhanced boarding do not imply the same thing. Early bird check-in is a paid service that allows passengers to have Southwest automatically check them in and assign them a boarding place before public boarding begins. Upgraded boarding allows travellers to buy one of the A1-A15 boarding places on the day of their flight, allowing them to board early and reserve a preferred seat. Early bird check-in is offered before the flight, while enhanced boarding is accessible on the day of departure at the gate or ticket counter.
Is Priority boarding worth it?
Whether Priority boarding is worth it depends on your specific travel preferences and priorities. Here are some factors to consider:
Pros of Priority Boarding:
1. Seat Selection: Priority boarding allows you to choose from a wider range of available seats, including preferred seating near the front of the plane, window or aisle seats, and extra legroom seats.
2. Overhead Bin Space: Being one of the first to board ensures you have space in the overhead bins for your carry-on luggage, reducing the risk of having to gate-check your bags.
3. Early Departure: Priority boarding enables you to settle into your seat and get comfortable before the majority of passengers board, resulting in a more relaxed start to your flight.
Cons of Priority Boarding:
1. Additional Cost: Priority boarding often comes at an extra cost. You'll need to evaluate whether the benefits provided justify the additional expense for your specific trip.
2. Limited Availability: Priority boarding positions (typically A1-A15) are limited and can sell out quickly, especially on popular flights. They may not always be available when you decide to purchase them.
3.Alternative Benefits: If you already hold elite status with the airline, such as A-List status on Southwest, or have certain credit cards with upgraded boarding benefits, you may already enjoy early boarding privileges without purchasing them separately.
In conclusion, the value of Priority boarding varies from person to person and trip to trip. Assess your seating preferences, willingness to pay for convenience, and whether you have access to similar benefits through loyalty programs or credit cards.
How do I get a Southwest Preferred List (A-List)?
To achieve A-List status on Southwest Airlines and gain priority benefits like priority boarding, follow these typical requirements within a calendar year:
1. Fly 25 Qualifying One-Way Flights: Accumulate 25 qualifying one-way flights with Southwest in a calendar year. Each one-way flight is counted individually.
2. Earn 35,000 Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs): Alternatively, reach A-List status by earning 35,000 Tier Qualifying Points within a calendar year. TQPs are earned through eligible flights and specific credit card spending.
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